Current and perspective families gathered at the school for a beloved tradition that has grown into the perfect way to remind students that school is right around the corner.
Students received temporary tattoos and face paint while gathering ahead of the new school year.
The afternoon was packed with fun. Kids climbed aboard a trackless train, got a new look with fun face painting, and marveled at a balloon artist twisting up creations on the spot. The petting zoo drew plenty of gentle hands, and the appearance of some familiar characters brought big smiles.
But beyond the laughter, the carnival served a bigger purpose in reconnecting current families and students with the school community and giving future families a taste of the Taylor Exemplar Academy experience.
The event also featured a petting zoo, which was a hit!
"It is always so special to reconnect with our students and families after being away from the building for the summer," said Principal Zemen Marrugi. "Events like this are an important part of building a strong school culture and creating meaningful opportunities to engage our families in a positive and joyful way."
That sense of connection from the Summer Carnival carries over to the start of the school year. When families feel welcomed and engaged from day one, students walk into the classroom feeling supported and ready to learn.
A couple of familiar characters were on scene to create fun moments and photo opportunities.
Strong partnerships between families and the school set the tone for a successful year ahead, and they start with events like these.
Thanks to the school’s warm and welcoming staff, the Summer Carnival was filled with smiling faces and the kind of energy that reminds everyone why they love being part of the Taylor Exemplar Academy community.
Families gather for the Taylor Exemplar Summer Carnival.
"We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this Taylor Exemplar Academy tradition so special," Marrugi said.
What a great way to get families engaged with school ahead of the first day!
About Taylor Exemplar Academy
Taylor Exemplar Academy is a free public charter school in Taylor, Mich., serving students in Young 5s through high school in partnership with Taylor Preparatory High School, a school that falls under National Heritage Academies (NHA®) portfolio. NHA is a charter school management company in Grand Rapids, Mich. which has more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools across nine states, serving more than 60,000 students in kindergarten through high school. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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